Inflammatory Bowel Diseases as Multi-Focal Disorders: Results from a Multi-Regional Survey on Bodily and Psychosocial Problems in IBD Patients

Background: Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) experience various bodily and psychosocial impairments. We report data from a recent German questionnaire survey. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted in 2005 as a postal survey in three regions in West (Kiel and Luebeck, Regensburg) and East (Halle/Saale) Germany. Patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (CD, UC) were recruited from specialized gastroenterological practices, university outpatient clinics, and the registry of a prominent patient organization (DCCV). The questionnaire followed the concept and distinctions of WHO's ICF and incorporated (inter-) nationally established items and scales (i.a. HADS). Results: Survey responders (n = 1083, CD: 58%, 65% female) had a mean age of 42 years with an average disease duration of 13 years. 25% suffered severely or very severely from their disease in general, one third stated at least severe fatigue, and 52% felt profoundly affected by stress. A clinically relevant anxiety was observed in 24% with no relevant difference between males and females. Depression was more common in men (29%) than in women (21%). Restrictions in social participation (family life, work) were actually prominent in at least a quarter of the responders. Conclusions: Beside somatic ailments typical for the disease, patients also reported multiple psychosocial impairments and participation restrictions and should hence profit from a multi-and interdisciplinary team care.